Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A system comprising: a distribution facility at a first location in a first geographic region; a carrier vehicle; a first autonomous ground vehicle; a second autonomous ground vehicle; and at least one computer system in communication with the carrier vehicle, the first autonomous ground vehicle and the second autonomous ground vehicle, wherein the at least one computer system is configured to execute a method comprising: predicting, at a first time, a level of demand for a first item in a second geographic region at a second time; prior to the second time, selecting at least a first number of the first item based at least in part on the level of demand for the first item in the second geographic region at the second time; prior to the second time, causing at least the first number of the first item to be loaded into at least one of the first autonomous ground vehicle or the second autonomous ground vehicle at the distribution facility; prior to the second time, causing at least the first autonomous ground vehicle and the second autonomous ground vehicle to be loaded onto the carrier vehicle at the distribution facility; and causing the carrier vehicle to travel from the first location to at least a second location within the second geographic region.
This system involves autonomous logistics for distributing items between geographic regions. The system addresses inefficiencies in traditional supply chains by predicting demand and pre-positioning inventory closer to customers using autonomous vehicles. A distribution facility in a first geographic region stores items, while autonomous ground vehicles and a carrier vehicle transport them to a second geographic region. A computer system predicts demand for a specific item in the second region at a future time, then selects and loads a quantity of that item into one or more autonomous ground vehicles. These vehicles are then loaded onto a carrier vehicle, which transports them to a second location within the second geographic region. The system optimizes inventory placement by anticipating demand and reducing transit times, improving delivery speed and reducing costs. The autonomous ground vehicles may operate independently or in coordination with the carrier vehicle to navigate and distribute items efficiently. This approach leverages predictive analytics and automation to streamline logistics operations across regions.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein each of the first autonomous ground vehicle and the second autonomous ground vehicle comprises: a frame; a storage compartment having a hatch pivotably joined to an outer surface of the frame by at least one hinge, wherein the hatch is configured to pivot between an open position and a closed position; at least four wheels; an electric motor, wherein the electric motor is configured to rotate at least one of the at least four wheels; at least one wireless transceiver; and at least one light.
This invention relates to autonomous ground vehicles designed for material transport, addressing the need for efficient, automated logistics in environments like warehouses or construction sites. The system includes at least two autonomous ground vehicles, each equipped with a frame supporting a storage compartment. The compartment features a pivotable hatch, joined to the frame by hinges, allowing it to move between open and closed positions for loading and unloading materials. Each vehicle has at least four wheels, with an electric motor driving at least one wheel for propulsion. Wireless transceivers enable communication between vehicles and external systems, facilitating coordinated movement and task execution. Integrated lights enhance visibility and safety during operation. The design ensures modularity, scalability, and adaptability for various transport applications, improving automation in material handling workflows. The vehicles operate independently or in coordination, optimizing efficiency in logistics and reducing manual intervention. The system prioritizes reliability, ease of maintenance, and seamless integration into existing automated environments.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the carrier vehicle is a van comprising a rear access door and a ramp configured to extend from the carrier vehicle, and wherein the first autonomous ground vehicle is caused to disembark from the carrier vehicle at the second location via the rear access door and the ramp.
This system uses a computer to predict the level of demand for specific items in a target geographic region at a future time. Based on this prediction, a determined quantity of these items is selected and loaded into one or more autonomous ground vehicles (AGVs) at a distribution facility located in a different region. These loaded AGVs are then placed onto a carrier vehicle. Specifically, the carrier vehicle is a van that includes a rear access door and an extendable ramp. The van transports the AGVs from the distribution facility to a designated second location within the target geographic region. Once at this second location, the system orchestrates the first autonomous ground vehicle to disembark from the van, utilizing the rear access door and the extended ramp to exit. ERROR (embedding): Error: Failed to save embedding: Could not find the 'embedding' column of 'patent_claims' in the schema cache
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises: receiving a first order for a delivery of at least one of the first item to a third location in the second geographic area; and in response to receiving the first order, causing the first autonomous ground vehicle to disembark from the carrier vehicle within the second geographic region; and causing the first autonomous ground vehicle to transport at least the one of the first item to the third location via at least a portion of at least one of a sidewalk, a crosswalk, a path or a trail.
This invention relates to autonomous delivery systems for transporting items within urban or suburban environments. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently delivering goods to specific locations in a second geographic area, particularly where traditional delivery vehicles may face access restrictions or congestion. The core system includes a carrier vehicle and at least one autonomous ground vehicle (AGV) that can be transported by the carrier vehicle to a designated area. The AGV is designed to disembark from the carrier vehicle and navigate pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, paths, or trails, to deliver items directly to a recipient's location. The system enhances last-mile delivery by leveraging the mobility of the carrier vehicle for long-distance transport and the agility of the AGV for localized, precise deliveries. The AGV operates autonomously, ensuring safe and efficient navigation through pedestrian and low-speed zones. This approach optimizes delivery logistics by reducing reliance on traditional delivery trucks in congested or restricted areas, improving delivery speed and accessibility. The system is particularly useful for urban environments where space and traffic constraints limit conventional delivery methods.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises: prior to the second time, causing at least a second number of a second item to be loaded into the second autonomous ground vehicle; receiving a second order for a delivery of at least one of the first item or at least one of the second item to a fourth location in the second geographic area; and in response to receiving the second order, causing the second autonomous ground vehicle to disembark from the carrier vehicle; and causing the second autonomous ground vehicle to transport at least the one of the first item or the one of the second item to the fourth location.
This invention relates to a logistics system for autonomous ground vehicles (AGVs) that operate within a carrier vehicle, such as a truck or train, to facilitate on-demand deliveries. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing inventory and deliveries in a multi-vehicle logistics network, particularly in scenarios where items must be transported from a central hub to multiple destinations within a geographic area. The system includes a carrier vehicle equipped with at least one AGV, which can load and unload items autonomously. Before a second delivery operation, the system loads a second quantity of a second item into the AGV. Upon receiving a new delivery request for either the first or second item to a fourth location within the same geographic area, the system instructs the AGV to disembark from the carrier vehicle and transport the requested item to the specified destination. This approach enables dynamic, on-demand delivery capabilities without requiring the carrier vehicle to stop or deviate from its primary route, improving efficiency and reducing transit times. The system may also coordinate multiple AGVs to handle simultaneous deliveries, optimizing resource utilization and reducing operational costs.
6. A method comprising: determining a level of demand for a first item in a first geographic area by at least one computer processor; selecting a first number of the first item based at least in part on the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area determined by the at least one computer processor; loading at least the first number of the first item into at least a first storage compartment of a first autonomous ground vehicle at a first location, wherein the first location is not in the first geographic area, and wherein the first autonomous ground vehicle comprises: a first frame; the first storage compartment, wherein the first storage compartment has a first hatch pivotably joined to an outer surface of the first frame by at least a first hinge, wherein the first hatch is configured to pivot between an open position and a closed position; at least a first wheel; a first electric motor, wherein the first electric motor is configured to rotate at least the first wheel; at least a first wireless transceiver; and at least a first light; and transporting, by a carrier vehicle, at least the first autonomous ground vehicle to at least a second location within the first geographic area.
This invention relates to an autonomous ground vehicle system for transporting items based on demand in a specific geographic area. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently distributing goods by dynamically adjusting inventory levels and using autonomous vehicles for delivery. A computer processor determines the demand level for a specific item in a target geographic area. Based on this demand, a predetermined quantity of the item is selected and loaded into a storage compartment of an autonomous ground vehicle. The vehicle is equipped with a frame, a storage compartment featuring a pivotable hatch for access, wheels, an electric motor for propulsion, a wireless transceiver for communication, and at least one light. The autonomous vehicle is initially located outside the target area and is transported by a carrier vehicle to a designated location within the geographic area. This approach optimizes logistics by aligning inventory with demand and leveraging autonomous transportation for last-mile delivery. The system ensures efficient distribution while minimizing manual intervention.
7. The method of claim 6 , further comprising: receiving a first order for a delivery of at least one of the first item to a third location by the at least one computer processor, wherein the third location is within the first geographic area; and in response to receiving the first order, causing the first autonomous ground vehicle to disembark from the carrier vehicle within the first geographic area; and transmitting, to the first autonomous ground vehicle over a network, at least one instruction to deliver the at least one of the first item to the third location.
This invention relates to autonomous delivery systems, specifically methods for coordinating the transport and delivery of items using autonomous ground vehicles and carrier vehicles. The problem addressed is the efficient and scalable distribution of goods within a geographic area, particularly in urban or high-density environments where traditional delivery methods may be inefficient or costly. The method involves using a carrier vehicle to transport at least one autonomous ground vehicle carrying items to a first geographic area. The carrier vehicle may be a larger vehicle, such as a truck or van, capable of transporting multiple autonomous ground vehicles. Once the carrier vehicle arrives at the first geographic area, it can deploy the autonomous ground vehicles to deliver items to specific locations within that area. The autonomous ground vehicles are designed to navigate autonomously, avoiding obstacles and following predefined or dynamically generated routes. Upon receiving an order for an item, the system instructs the carrier vehicle to disembark the appropriate autonomous ground vehicle within the first geographic area. The autonomous ground vehicle then receives instructions over a network to deliver the item to the specified third location. This approach reduces the need for the carrier vehicle to make multiple stops, improving efficiency and reducing traffic congestion. The system can also optimize delivery routes in real-time based on factors such as traffic conditions, delivery priorities, and vehicle availability. The method ensures timely and cost-effective delivery of items while minimizing the environmental impact of traditional delivery methods.
8. The method of claim 7 , further comprising: loading at least a second number of a second item into at least the first storage compartment of the first autonomous ground vehicle at the first location; receiving a second order for a delivery of at least one of the second item to a fourth location by the at least one computer processor, wherein the fourth location is within the first geographic area; and in response to receiving the second order, causing the second autonomous ground vehicle to disembark from the carrier vehicle within the first geographic area; and transmitting, to the second autonomous ground vehicle over the network, at least one instruction to deliver the at least one of the second item to the fourth location.
This invention relates to autonomous delivery systems, specifically methods for coordinating multiple autonomous ground vehicles and carrier vehicles to fulfill delivery orders within a geographic area. The problem addressed is the efficient distribution of items from a central location to multiple destinations using a combination of carrier vehicles and autonomous ground vehicles, optimizing logistics and reducing delivery times. The system involves a carrier vehicle transporting multiple autonomous ground vehicles to a first location within a geographic area. At least one autonomous ground vehicle disembarks from the carrier vehicle and loads items into its storage compartments. A computer processor receives a delivery order for one or more items to a specific location within the geographic area. In response, the autonomous ground vehicle is instructed to deliver the items to the designated location. Additionally, the system allows for loading a second set of items into the autonomous ground vehicle at the first location. Upon receiving a second delivery order for these items to a different location within the same geographic area, the autonomous ground vehicle is instructed to deliver the second set of items to the new destination. This method enables dynamic and flexible delivery operations, ensuring efficient item distribution across multiple points within the geographic area. The system leverages autonomous vehicles to streamline logistics, reduce manual intervention, and improve delivery efficiency.
9. The method of claim 6 , further comprising: receiving a first order for a delivery of at least one of the first item to a third location by the at least one computer processor; in response to receiving the first order, causing the first autonomous ground vehicle to disembark from the carrier vehicle within the first geographic area; and transmitting, to the first autonomous ground vehicle over a network, at least one instruction to travel to a fourth location; transmitting, to a second autonomous ground vehicle over the network, at least one instruction to travel to the fourth location; transmitting, to the first autonomous ground vehicle over the network, at least one instruction to transfer the at least one of the first item to the second autonomous vehicle at the fourth location; transmitting, to the second autonomous ground vehicle over the network, at least one instruction to receive the at least one of the first item from the first autonomous vehicle at the fourth location; transmitting, to the second autonomous ground vehicle over the network, at least one instruction to deliver the at least one of the first item to the third location.
This invention relates to a logistics system using autonomous ground vehicles and carrier vehicles for item delivery. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently transporting items from a central location to multiple delivery destinations, particularly in urban or congested areas where traditional delivery methods may be slow or inefficient. The system includes a carrier vehicle that transports multiple autonomous ground vehicles, each capable of carrying items. When an order is received for delivering an item to a specific location, the system instructs one of the autonomous ground vehicles to disembark from the carrier vehicle within a designated geographic area. The autonomous ground vehicle then receives instructions to travel to a designated transfer location. At this location, the item is transferred from the first autonomous ground vehicle to a second autonomous ground vehicle. The second vehicle then receives instructions to deliver the item to the final destination. The system coordinates the movement and actions of the autonomous vehicles through networked communications, ensuring seamless item transfer and delivery. This approach improves delivery efficiency by leveraging modular, autonomous transportation units that can navigate independently or in coordination with carrier vehicles.
10. The method of claim 6 , wherein the carrier vehicle is a van comprising an access door and a ramp, and wherein the access door and the ramp are configured to enable autonomous ground vehicles to embark upon or disembark from the carrier vehicle.
This invention relates to a transportation system for autonomous ground vehicles, addressing the challenge of efficiently loading and unloading such vehicles from a carrier vehicle. The system includes a van equipped with an access door and a ramp, both designed to facilitate the autonomous entry and exit of ground vehicles. The access door provides a controlled entry point, while the ramp allows for smooth and autonomous movement of the ground vehicles into and out of the van. The ramp may be adjustable or retractable to accommodate different vehicle sizes and ensure safe loading and unloading. The van may also include sensors or guidance systems to assist the autonomous vehicles in navigating the ramp and door during the process. This system enhances operational efficiency by enabling autonomous ground vehicles to independently board and disembark without manual intervention, reducing labor costs and improving logistics workflows. The invention is particularly useful in logistics, delivery, and transportation industries where autonomous vehicles are deployed for tasks such as last-mile delivery or warehouse operations.
11. The method of claim 6 , wherein the first storage compartment is configured to be maintained at a selected temperature, and wherein the first item comprises at least one food product.
This invention relates to a temperature-controlled storage system for food products. The system includes a storage compartment designed to maintain a selected temperature to preserve the freshness and quality of food items stored inside. The compartment is part of a larger storage apparatus that may include multiple compartments, each potentially serving different storage purposes. The temperature control ensures that perishable food products remain at optimal conditions, preventing spoilage and extending shelf life. The system may incorporate sensors and control mechanisms to monitor and adjust the temperature automatically, ensuring consistent performance. The design may also include features to minimize energy consumption while maintaining the desired temperature range. This invention addresses the need for efficient and reliable food storage solutions, particularly in environments where temperature fluctuations could compromise food safety and quality. The system is adaptable to various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial applications, providing a versatile solution for preserving food products under controlled conditions.
12. The method of claim 6 , wherein determining the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area comprises: determining, by the at least one computer processor, at least one of: prior purchases of the first item or a second item by customers in the first geographic area over a predetermined period of time, wherein the second item is one of a complement to the first item or a substitute for the first item; or prior deliveries of the first item or the second item to the first geographic area over the predetermined period of time; and predicting the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area based at least in part on at least one of the prior purchases or the prior deliveries.
This invention relates to demand prediction for items in specific geographic areas, addressing the challenge of accurately forecasting demand to optimize inventory and logistics. The method involves analyzing historical data to predict future demand for a first item in a first geographic area. The system determines demand levels by evaluating prior purchases of the first item or related items (complements or substitutes) by customers in the area over a defined time period. Alternatively, it assesses prior deliveries of the first item or related items to the area. The system then predicts demand based on this historical data, enabling better resource allocation and supply chain management. The method may also consider external factors like seasonal trends or local events to refine predictions. By leveraging purchase and delivery records, the system provides a data-driven approach to demand forecasting, reducing overstocking or shortages. The invention is particularly useful for retailers, distributors, and logistics providers aiming to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.
13. The method of claim 6 , wherein determining the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area comprises: identifying a first attribute of the first geographic area by the at least one computer processor; determining, by the at least one computer processor, that the first attribute is similar to a second attribute of a second geographic area; and in response to determining that the first attribute is similar to the second attribute, determining a level of demand for the first item in the second geographic area by the at least one computer processor, wherein the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area is determined based at least in part on the level of demand for the first item in the second geographic area.
This invention relates to methods for determining demand for items in geographic areas by leveraging data from similar regions. The problem addressed is the difficulty in accurately assessing demand for items in areas with limited or incomplete data. The solution involves using attributes of a first geographic area to identify a second geographic area with similar characteristics, then applying demand data from the second area to estimate demand in the first area. A computer processor identifies a first attribute of the first geographic area, such as population density, economic indicators, or consumer behavior patterns. The processor then compares this attribute to a second attribute of a second geographic area to determine similarity. If the attributes are similar, the processor uses the known demand level for an item in the second area to estimate demand for the same item in the first area. This approach allows for more accurate demand forecasting in data-scarce regions by leveraging insights from comparable areas. The method can be applied to various industries, including retail, logistics, and market analysis, to optimize inventory, pricing, and distribution strategies. The system dynamically adjusts demand estimates as new data becomes available, improving accuracy over time.
14. The method of claim 6 , wherein determining the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area comprises: identifying an upcoming event occurring in at least the first geographic area by the at least one computer processor, wherein the first item is related to the upcoming event, and wherein the level of demand of the first item in the first geographic area is determined based at least in part on at least one attribute of the upcoming event.
This invention relates to a method for dynamically determining demand for items in specific geographic areas based on upcoming events. The method addresses the problem of accurately predicting demand fluctuations caused by local events, such as concerts, sports games, or festivals, which can significantly impact the need for related items like merchandise, tickets, or event-specific products. The method involves using at least one computer processor to identify an upcoming event in a geographic area where demand for a particular item is being assessed. The item must be related to the event, such as branded merchandise for a concert or tickets for a sports game. The processor then determines the level of demand for the item by analyzing at least one attribute of the upcoming event. These attributes may include the event's date, location, expected attendance, or type, which help quantify how the event will influence demand. By correlating event attributes with item demand, the method enables businesses to adjust inventory, pricing, or distribution strategies proactively. This approach improves supply chain efficiency and reduces waste by aligning supply with anticipated demand spikes driven by local events. The system can be applied to various industries, including retail, hospitality, and event management, where demand forecasting is critical.
15. The method of claim 6 , further comprising: identify a demand threshold associated with at least one of the first item or the first geographic area by the at least one computer processor; and determining that the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area exceeds the demand threshold by the at least one computer processor, wherein the first number of the first item is selected based at least in part on the level of demand for the first geographic area in response to determining that the level of demand exceeds the demand threshold.
This invention relates to demand-based inventory management systems that optimize stock levels for items in specific geographic areas. The problem addressed is inefficient inventory allocation, where items may be overstocked or understocked due to inaccurate demand forecasting, leading to lost sales or excess storage costs. The system uses at least one computer processor to analyze demand data for a first item in a first geographic area. A demand threshold is identified for either the item or the geographic area. The processor then determines whether the actual demand level exceeds this threshold. If it does, the system selects a quantity of the first item to stock based on the demand level in that area. This ensures that inventory levels are dynamically adjusted to match real-time demand, preventing shortages or surpluses. The method may also involve tracking historical demand patterns, seasonal trends, or external factors influencing demand. The demand threshold can be a predefined value or dynamically calculated based on past performance. By continuously monitoring and adjusting inventory in response to demand fluctuations, the system improves supply chain efficiency and reduces operational costs. This approach is particularly useful for perishable goods, high-turnover products, or items with regional demand variations.
16. The method of claim 6 , further comprising: loading at least a second number of a second item into at least a second storage compartment of a second autonomous ground vehicle at the first location, wherein the second autonomous ground vehicle comprises: a second frame; the second storage compartment, wherein the second storage compartment has a second hatch pivotably joined to an outer surface of the second frame by at least a second hinge, wherein the second hatch is configured to pivot between an open position and a closed position; at least a second wheel; a second electric motor, wherein the second electric motor is configured to rotate at least the second wheel; at least a second wireless transceiver; and at least a second light, and wherein transporting at least the first autonomous ground vehicle to at least the second location within the first geographic area comprises: transporting at least the first autonomous ground vehicle and the second autonomous ground vehicle to at least the second location within the first geographic area, and wherein the method further comprises: receiving a first order for a delivery of at least one of the second item to a third location by the at least one computer processor, wherein the third location is within the first geographic area; and in response to receiving the first order, causing the second autonomous ground vehicle to disembark from the carrier vehicle within the first geographic area; and transmitting, to the second autonomous ground vehicle over a network, at least one instruction to deliver the at least one of the second item to the third location.
This invention relates to an autonomous ground vehicle system for transporting and delivering items within a geographic area. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently moving goods from a central location to multiple delivery points using autonomous vehicles that can operate independently or in coordination with a carrier vehicle. The system includes at least two autonomous ground vehicles, each equipped with a storage compartment, wheels, an electric motor, a wireless transceiver, and a light. Each storage compartment has a pivotable hatch connected to the vehicle's frame via a hinge, allowing the hatch to open and close for loading and unloading items. The vehicles are initially loaded with items at a first location, such as a warehouse or hub, and transported to a second location within the geographic area using a carrier vehicle. Once at the second location, the autonomous vehicles can disembark from the carrier and proceed to deliver items to specific destinations based on received orders. The system receives delivery requests, processes them, and transmits instructions to the appropriate autonomous vehicle to navigate to the designated delivery location. This approach enhances logistics efficiency by enabling scalable, decentralized delivery operations.
17. A method comprising: receiving an order for a delivery of a first item to a first location; determining that at least one of the first item is located within a first storage compartment of a first autonomous ground vehicle at a second location, wherein the first autonomous ground vehicle comprises: a first frame; a first item engagement system; the first storage compartment; at least a first wheel; a first electric motor, wherein the first electric motor is configured to rotate at least the first wheel; and at least a first wireless transceiver; determining that a second autonomous ground vehicle is located at a third location, wherein the second autonomous ground vehicle comprises: a second frame; a second item engagement system; a second storage compartment; at least a second wheel; a second electric motor, wherein the second electric motor is configured to rotate at least the second wheel; and at least a second wireless transceiver; instructing the first autonomous ground vehicle to travel to a fourth location; instructing the second autonomous ground vehicle to travel to the fourth location; transferring, by the first item engagement system, at least the first item from the first storage compartment to the second item engagement system; depositing, by the second item engagement system, at least the first item into the second storage compartment; instructing the second autonomous ground vehicle to deliver at least the first item from the fourth location to the first location.
Autonomous ground vehicles are used for item delivery, but coordinating multiple vehicles to efficiently transfer items between them remains a challenge. This invention addresses the problem by enabling seamless item handoffs between autonomous ground vehicles to optimize delivery routes. The system involves a first autonomous ground vehicle equipped with a storage compartment, an item engagement system, wheels, an electric motor, and a wireless transceiver. A second autonomous ground vehicle has similar components. When an order is received for delivering an item to a first location, the system checks if the item is in the first vehicle's storage compartment at a second location. If a second vehicle is available at a third location, both vehicles are instructed to move to a fourth location where the item is transferred from the first vehicle's engagement system to the second vehicle's system and then deposited into the second vehicle's storage compartment. The second vehicle then delivers the item to the first location. This method improves delivery efficiency by leveraging multiple autonomous vehicles to handle item transfers dynamically.
18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising: determining a level of demand for a first item in a first geographic area, wherein at least one of the first location or the second location is within the first geographic area; selecting a first number of the first item based at least in part on the level of demand for the first item in the first geographic area; loading at least the first number of the first item into at least the first storage compartment of the first autonomous ground vehicle; and transporting, by a carrier vehicle, at least the first autonomous ground vehicle to at least the second location.
This invention relates to an autonomous ground vehicle system for transporting items based on demand in specific geographic areas. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently distributing goods by dynamically adjusting inventory levels in autonomous vehicles according to localized demand patterns. The method involves determining demand levels for a specific item in a designated geographic area, where at least one of the vehicle's pickup or delivery locations is within that area. Based on this demand data, a specific quantity of the item is selected for loading into a storage compartment of the autonomous vehicle. The vehicle is then transported by a carrier vehicle to its destination, ensuring that inventory aligns with regional demand. This approach optimizes logistics by reducing overstock or shortages in high-demand areas, improving delivery efficiency and resource utilization. The system may also involve coordinating multiple autonomous vehicles and carrier vehicles to streamline transportation networks, particularly in urban or high-traffic environments. The invention enhances supply chain responsiveness by integrating real-time demand analysis with autonomous delivery operations.
19. The method of claim 17 , wherein each of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment is configured to be maintained at one or more temperatures, and wherein the first item comprises at least one food product.
This invention relates to a temperature-controlled storage system for food products. The system includes at least two storage compartments, each capable of maintaining one or more specific temperatures independently. The compartments are designed to store different items, with at least one compartment holding food products. The system allows for precise temperature control within each compartment, ensuring optimal storage conditions for various items, including perishable food products. The compartments may be part of a larger storage unit, such as a refrigerator or freezer, and can be adjusted to different temperature settings based on the requirements of the stored items. This design enables efficient and flexible storage, preventing spoilage and maintaining product quality. The system may also include sensors and controls to monitor and regulate temperature levels automatically. The invention addresses the need for versatile storage solutions that can accommodate multiple items with different temperature needs, particularly in household or commercial settings where food preservation is critical.
20. The method of claim 17 , wherein the first item engagement system comprises a robotic arm.
A robotic system is used to engage and manipulate items in an automated environment, such as a warehouse or manufacturing facility. The system addresses challenges in precision handling, efficiency, and adaptability when interacting with various objects. The method involves using a robotic arm as part of an item engagement system to perform tasks like picking, placing, or orienting items. The robotic arm is equipped with sensors and actuators to detect and manipulate objects with high accuracy. It may include end-effectors, such as grippers or suction devices, tailored to the specific item being handled. The system can integrate with vision systems to identify item locations and orientations, ensuring proper engagement. The robotic arm may also adjust its movement based on real-time feedback to avoid collisions and improve handling efficiency. This approach enhances automation in logistics, assembly, and other industrial processes by reducing human intervention and increasing operational speed and reliability. The system can be deployed in dynamic environments where items vary in size, shape, and material, making it versatile for different applications.
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January 14, 2020
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